¡Hola, mis queridos amigos viajeros! That’s right, we’re still in sunny Spain, and I’m here to share my latest journey from Garrovillas de Alcántara to Mirabel.

The 32.7 kilometers between these two charming locales were filled with olive groves and rolling hills. But what took my breath away — and believe me, for a gnome, that’s saying something! — was the sight of the storks nesting atop the bell towers in Mirabel. Unlike my fellow explorers, these winged guests migrate annually to escape the cold, only to return to their same old homes. I felt a pang of envy. Maybe I should trade in my boots for wings? But, quoth the gnome, “A life without dusty boots is a life half-lived!”

Now, a quick recap: I’ve been on the road for 14 days, covering a distance of 329.8 kilometers. I’ve taken in the sights, sounds, and soul of Valencia de Alcántara, Alcántara, Garrovillas de Alconétar, and now Mirabel.

And let’s not forget Malpartida de Plasencia waiting on the horizon. But, as they say here, “No hay que vender la piel del oso antes de cazarlo” — don’t count your chickens before they’re hatched. But I’m a gnome, not a chicken, so onwards I go!

As I trudged along, a local song echoed in my mind, “Viva España, viva el amor.” (Long live Spain, long live love.) It’s a simple sentiment, but one that encapsulates the warm, passionate spirit of this land.

And now, a little gnome wisdom to send you off: “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Or in my case, a single, gnome-sized leap!

Until next time, amigos. Remember, life is a journey, not a destination.

Hasta luego! (See you later!)

Mirabel, a jewel nestled in the region of Extremadura, is a city that exudes history and culture at every corner. Its most iconic feature is the Castle of Mirabel or “Castillo de Mirabel”, which was constructed in the 15th century. This fortification is a silent witness of the city’s past, where the stones whisper tales of knights, battles, and legendary feats.

The city is also known for its connection to Spain’s greatest literary figure, Miguel de Cervantes. It’s believed that “Don Quijote de la Mancha”, the renowned knight-errant, ventured through Mirabel on his quest, immortalizing the city in one of the greatest novels ever written.

“Por aquí pasó Don Quijote, el caballero de la triste figura” – Here passed Don Quijote, the knight of the sorrowful face – an echo of the past reverberating through the cobbled streets of this charming city.

In Mirabel, you’re not just visiting a city, you’re stepping into a living storybook.